- 1. Introduction
- 2. Where to Watch
- Where to Watch Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentōshō in Japan (For Overseas Anime Fans)
1. Introduction
Coming this April 2025, the much-anticipated anime “Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentōshō” is set to premiere.
Adapted from Motoo Nakanishi’s acclaimed novel series, this captivating historical fantasy whisks viewers away to Japan’s Edo period, where the paths of humans and demons become intertwined.
Since its announcement, the series has drawn significant buzz from fans of the original novels and anime enthusiasts alike.
With stunning visuals, rich world-building, and a top-tier production team and voice cast, the anime promises to be an unforgettable experience.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know—broadcast schedules, staff and cast details, plot summary, and key highlights—before the show hits your screens.
Interested in more exciting Spring 2025 anime releases? Don’t miss out on these upcoming titles:
- 🌟 Everything You Need to Know About Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray
- 🚀 Discover Im the Evil Lord of an Intergalactic Empire!
- 🤖 Get the Latest Info on Kakushite! Makina-san!!
- 🔥 Find Out More About The Unaware Atelier Master
- 👑 Learn About The Too Perfect Saint’s Story Here
2. Where to Watch
Broadcast Information
- TOKYO MX: Premieres March 31, 2025 (Monday) at 9:30 PM JST. Regular episodes air every Monday at 12:00 AM starting April 7.
- MBS: First episode airs April 1, 2025 (Tuesday) at 2:30 AM JST. From April 8 onward, new episodes air every Tuesday at 3:00 AM.
- BS Fuji: Airs the first episode April 1, 2025 (Tuesday) at 12:00 AM JST. Weekly episodes continue every Tuesday at 12:30 AM starting April 8.
Streaming Platforms
Streaming Platform and Availability:
- HIDIVE: The series will debut exclusively on HIDIVE, a global anime streaming service.
Release Schedule:
- Premiere Date: March 31, 2025
- First Episode: A special 60-minute episode airing at 8:30 AM Eastern Time
- Subsequent Episodes: Starting April 7, 2025, new 30-minute episodes will be released every Monday at 11:00 AM Eastern Time
Regional Availability:
HIDIVE is accessible in multiple regions, including:
- United States
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Ireland
- Australia
- New Zealand
Availability may extend to other regions; viewers should verify HIDIVE’s accessibility in their specific country.
Language Options:
- Subtitles: The anime will be available with English subtitles.
- Dubbing: Information regarding dubbed versions in English, Spanish, or other languages has not been specified at this time.
For the most current information and any updates on language options or regional availability, please visit HIDIVE’s official website or their social media channels.
Where to Watch Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentōshō in Japan (For Overseas Anime Fans)
If you’re an international anime fan interested in watching Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentōshō through Japanese streaming services (perhaps using a VPN), here’s a list of the major platforms offering the anime in Japan:
| Platform | Availability | URL |
|---|---|---|
| ABEMA | Simulcast with Japanese TV broadcast. Starts March 31, 2025 (Monday) at 9:30 PM JST. Weekly episodes every Monday at 12:00 AM JST starting April 7. | https://abema.tv/ |
| Netflix Japan | Available from April 3, 2025. New episodes every Thursday at 12:00 AM JST. | https://www.netflix.com/jp/ |
| Amazon Prime Video Japan | Available from April 3, 2025. New episodes every Thursday at 12:00 AM JST. | https://www.amazon.co.jp/Prime-Video/ |
| dAnime Store | Available from April 3, 2025. New episodes every Thursday at 12:00 AM JST. | https://anime.dmkt-sp.jp/ |
| U-NEXT | Available from April 3, 2025. New episodes every Thursday at 12:00 AM JST. | https://video.unext.jp/ |
| Hulu Japan | Available from April 3, 2025. New episodes every Thursday at 12:00 AM JST. | https://www.hulu.jp/ |
| FOD (Fuji TV On Demand) | Available from April 3, 2025. New episodes every Thursday at 12:00 AM JST. | https://fod.fujitv.co.jp/ |
| Bandai Channel | Available from April 3, 2025. New episodes every Thursday at 12:00 AM JST. | https://www.b-ch.com/ |
Important Notes for International Viewers:
- Region Lock: Most of these Japanese streaming platforms are region-locked and can only be accessed within Japan. To watch from abroad, you would typically need a reliable VPN service that allows you to set your region to Japan.
- Language Options: These services primarily offer the anime in Japanese audio with no subtitles (unless you are fluent in Japanese). Unlike global platforms like Crunchyroll, English subtitles may not be provided.
- Payment & Subscription: Many services require a Japanese payment method or a Japanese address to register. ABEMA offers a free viewing option, but premium features may require payment.
Recommendation for International Fans:
If you’re looking for official platforms in your region (such as HIDIVE, Crunchyroll, or Netflix Global), please check their announcements or listings specific to your country.
HIDIVE has announced they will stream Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentōshō globally (details shared earlier).
3. Trailer and Early Reception
| Category | Score (out of 10) | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Story | 8 | The historical fantasy narrative is well-structured, spanning multiple generations. The plot combines human drama with supernatural elements effectively, though pacing could vary depending on adaptation length. |
| Characters | 7 | The central characters—Jinta, Suzune, and Shirayuki—are engaging, with clear motivations and growth. However, side characters’ development might be limited within the anime’s scope. |
| Animation | 9 | Yokohama Animation Lab delivers high-quality visuals, beautifully depicting Edo-period settings and fluid action sequences. The art style is detailed and immersive. |
| Music | 8 | Composed by MONACA, the soundtrack enhances the emotional and atmospheric tone of the series. Fans are especially anticipating the OP and ED themes. |
| World-Building | 8 | The series skillfully presents a rich, believable Edo-period setting infused with folklore and supernatural lore, offering strong immersion. |
| Action (Custom Category) | 7 | The action scenes are well-animated, with impressive choreography during demon battles. However, action is balanced with slower, character-driven moments. |
The official teaser PV is already out, and it’s mesmerizing. It showcases the lush Edo-era settings and beautifully animated characters like Jinta and Suzune.
The fluid animation during intense battles against demons has especially caught fans’ attention.
Social media reactions highlight the anime’s visual appeal, with comments like “This is one to watch!” and “The animation is breathtaking.”
Fans of the original novels are equally thrilled, praising how faithfully the adaptation appears to capture the essence of the story. Casting choices have also been widely celebrated.
Watch the teaser PV here: Official YouTube Link
In addition, Director Kazuya Aiura shared his enthusiasm, emphasizing his dedication to portraying the characters’ evolution over the anime’s vast 170-year timeline—a reflection of the passion driving the production.
4. Basic Information
- Title: Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentōshō
- Premiere Date: March 31, 2025 (Monday)
- Animation Studio: Yokohama Animation Lab
- Director: Kazuya Aiura
- Series Composition & Script: Deko Akao
- Character Design: Tarou Ikegami
- Music: Ryuichi Takada, Keiichi Hirokawa, Kuniyuki Takahashi (MONACA)
- Main Cast:
- Jinta (voiced by Taku Yashiro)
- Suzune (voiced by Reina Ueda)
- Shirayuki (voiced by Saori Hayami)
- The Assimilated Demon (voiced by Hirotsugu Shirakuma)
- The Demoness of Foresight (voiced by Yui Kondou)
The ensemble of skilled voice actors adds depth and charm to the show’s central characters.
Official website and official Twitter
5. Story Overview (Spoiler-Free)
Set during the 11th year of the Tenpō era, a period marked by turmoil and famine, “Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentōshō” follows siblings Jinta and Suzune living in the secluded mountain village of Kadono.
Having arrived there as children, they grow up under the villagers’ care. Jinta serves as the guardian of Shirayuki, the local shrine maiden, while Suzune supports him.
One fateful day, during a demon-hunting mission in the forest, Jinta encounters a mysterious demon who speaks cryptically of the future.
This unexpected meeting sets off a chain of events that spans generations, from the Edo period into the present day, intertwining the fates of humans and demons alike.
6.Main Characters of Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentōshō
Shirayuki (Voiced by: Saori Hayami)
Shirayuki is the revered shrine maiden (“itsuki-hime”) of the village, carrying significant spiritual importance.
Graceful and serene, she possesses a mysterious aura and is central to the village’s traditions and supernatural connections.
As someone deeply connected to the spiritual realm, she is at constant risk of being targeted by demons.
While she appears composed and reserved, Shirayuki harbors her own insecurities and internal conflicts about her role.
Her interactions with Jinta and Suzune reveal her more vulnerable side, making her a multidimensional character.
Key Traits:
- Elegant, composed, and enigmatic
- Holds spiritual power and knowledge
- Carries emotional burdens related to her destiny
Suzune (Voiced by: Reina Ueda)
Suzune is Jinta’s close childhood friend and sister figure, who grew up alongside him in Kadono village.
Bright, caring, and resourceful, she often supports Jinta emotionally and practically, acting as his confidant.
Despite the hardships she has endured, Suzune maintains a positive outlook and deep compassion for those around her.
Her character adds a touch of lightness to the otherwise somber world of demons and fate.
However, Suzune is not merely a supporting figure; her emotional depth and resilience play a crucial role in shaping Jinta’s decisions and the overall narrative.
Key Traits:
- Warm-hearted, supportive, and courageous
- Acts as a moral anchor for Jinta
- Strong sense of family and loyalty
Jinta (Voiced by: Taku Yashiro)
Jinta is the protagonist of the series, a strong and determined young man living in the mountain village of Kadono.
Orphaned at a young age, he was taken in by the villagers and raised alongside his sister-like companion, Suzune.
He serves as the loyal guardian of the shrine maiden, Shirayuki, tasked with protecting her from the lurking threat of demons.
Jinta’s character is defined by his unwavering sense of duty, kindness, and calm demeanor.
Despite his seemingly quiet personality, he possesses great inner strength and skill as a swordsman.
Throughout the series, Jinta’s journey explores themes of destiny, loyalty, and the burdens carried across generations.
Key Traits:
- Calm, stoic, and compassionate
- Skilled demon hunter
- Struggles with the weight of his role and fate
7. About the Original Work
- Original Novel: Written by Motoo Nakanishi, published by Futabasha Bunko.
- Volumes: 14 volumes of the main series published, with 7 volumes of the bunko edition out as of March 2025.
- Reception: Widely regarded as a hidden gem within the historical fantasy genre, the series enjoys a loyal fanbase and strong sales. This anime marks its first adaptation.
The novel delves into profound themes such as the complexity of human nature, fate, and the enduring bond between humans and demons.
The anime adaptation has reignited interest in the original books, drawing new readers eager to explore the source material.
8. Highlights & Key Features
- Animation & Art Style: The anime vividly depicts the Edo period through meticulous background art and character designs. From natural landscapes to historical architecture, the visual quality is consistently praised.
- Story Appeal: A multilayered narrative blending the struggle between humans and demons with timeless themes like sibling relationships, friendship, and personal growth.
- Music: The soundtrack, composed by MONACA’s talented team, elevates the emotional and dramatic elements. Details on the opening and ending themes will be revealed soon.
- Direction: Guided by director Kazuya Aiura, expect a finely crafted portrayal of character development and a sweeping storyline that spans centuries.
9. Final Thoughts & Anticipation
“Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentōshō” is shaping up to be a must-watch, not only for fans of historical or fantasy anime but also for viewers who enjoy emotionally rich narratives centered on family bonds and human connection.
Its breathtaking visuals, gripping action sequences, and moving soundtrack have already generated considerable excitement.
For those wanting to immerse themselves further, reading the original novels before the anime airs will deepen your understanding of the characters and story.
After watching the anime, revisiting the books is also highly recommended to appreciate all the narrative layers.
Premiere Date: March 31, 2025 (Monday)
Where to Watch: TOKYO MX, MBS, BS Fuji, ABEMA, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and various other platforms.
For the latest updates, be sure to check the official website and streaming service listings!
🚨 Don’t stop here! Discover more exciting Spring 2025 anime premieres:
コメント